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There is a wide expanse of meadows tucked into the Wenatchee mountains. Meadows by their nature are fragile ecosystems, but you can enjoy the views from afar from a small trail that leaves from the parking area.
From the parking area, going counterclockwise around the meadow, follow the perimeter road for about a mile. This side sees less sun in the spring so melts out later, and may still have snow in the spring. Walking clockwise from the parking area also follows a perimeter road. After a half mile or so you will reach private inholdings. Please be respectful, and don't venture onto the private property.
You can get a better view of the meadow from an old logging road, too. Walk clockwise from the parking area about a quarter of a mile and take a left hand turn around the large gate. This old road isn’t very attractive but it quickly gets into recovering forest.
There are many spur roads in this area, so you'll want to have a map or route to keep you on the right track. By taking two right-hand forks in quick succession about one-half mile from the gate, you will get onto the old logging road which ascends above the meadow.
This road gradually gains about 200 feet and the views really open up. Tiptop is an old fire lookout location standing tall above the meadow to the south (ascender's right). In May and June the meadow comes alive with a sea of color stretching a mile or two into the hills. Relax, close your eyes and let the smells of summer warm your soul.
Note on the area: You might be asking yourself what is so special about a meadow? Try taking a moment to look at a topographical map of the area. This rather large, perfectly flat meadow, sits smack in the middle of the Ponderosa forest-covered Wenatchee mountains. Several endemic flowers call this delicate area home making this a truly special place. To visit the meadow itself, and to hopefully view the Wenatchee Larkspur and the Checker Mallow, keep an eye on the Washington Department of Natural Resources website; usually in June, they offer a guided trip through the meadow.
Trailhead
